How do Memories Work? |I&S

Synapses- A junction between two nerve cells, which has a small gap that the neurotransmitters diffuse and passes by.

Neurotransmitters- A chemical that passes signal one nerve cell to another

Cognitive- A mental process of learning something through experiences.

Consolidate- To reinforce something or make something more stronger and solid.

Neurons- A cell that caries signals and messages across the body from the brain to the other parts of nervous systems.

The memories in our brains are formed once the neurons have a strong communication with one another. Neurons only starts communicating to one another once they receive a several signals from a specific neurotransmitters. When the neurons create a stronger communication with others, the action is called long-term potentiation (LTP). LTP is used to explain how memories are formed due to strong connection between neurons and that they are maintained. This process creates a ‘synaptic contact’. It is a ability us humans have to recall different memories and thought processes. In order to maintain the memories, the LTP has to continue, meaning that the neurons have to continue the strong communication in order to keep the memories alive.